Polymers.

Lubricants

Reduce the viscosity of molten polymer, making it less sticky and easier to mould.

Allow more intricate shapes to be formed and enable lower moulding temperatures, reducing energy use.

Thermal antioxidants

Prevent oxidation of the polymer during high-temperature processing.

Reduce heat-related discolouration and degradation.

Pigments

Fine particles mixed into molten polymer to provide colour in the final product.

Affect appearance rather than mechanical properties.

Antistatic additives

Reduce the build-up of static electrical charge on the polymer surface.

Used where static could cause handling or safety issues.

Flame retardants

Reduce the likelihood of combustion and slow the spread of fire.

Commonly used in electrical products and vehicle components.

Plasticisers

Reduce hardness and brittleness at room temperature, increasing flexibility.

Improve processability by allowing polymers to be formed more easily at higher temperatures.

Example: added to LDPE food wrap to allow stretching over food.

Fillers

Increase bulk so less polymer is required, reducing material cost.

Mineral fillers increase thermal conductivity, allowing faster heating and cooling.

Shorter heating and cooling times result in reduced mould cycle times.

Biodegradable plasticisers

Make polymers softer and more flexible while increasing ease of breakdown.

Result in faster degradation compared to standard plastics.

Bio-batch additives

Include oxy-degradable, photo-degradable, and hydro-degradable additives.

Reduce degradation time from hundreds of years to a few years or months.

Antioxidants

Reduce environmental deterioration caused by oxygen exposure.

Prevent brittleness, surface cracking, and pigment discolouration in outdoor use.

UV light stabilisers

Prevent polymer chains breaking down due to ultraviolet radiation.

Reduce colour fading and embrittlement in outdoor products.